FORT SMITH, Ark. - University of Arkansas - Fort Smith scored twice in the first inning but was unable to keep pace with No. 2/7 Pittsburg State Friday as the Gorillas defeated the Lions, 17-2, at Crowder Field.
After the Gorillas struck for four runs in the opening frame, the Lions answered back with two in the bottom half. Outfielder Connor Earleywine led off with a single and scored as outfielder Nick Mazzola doubled to left center.
Mazzola then stole third and scored on an RBI groundout by infielder Caleb Eisenhower. Mazzola led the Lions with two hits on the afternoon.
The Gorillas scored three runs over the third and fourth innings as the Lions had chances to get back in the game in the sixth and seventh, but left the bases loaded each time. PSU broke the game open with seven runs in the top of the ninth.
Steffan Fak started on the mound for the Lions, allowing seven runs on six hits over 3.2 innings with two strikeouts.
The teams meet again Saturday at 1 p.m. for game two of the series.